2 Thessalonians 2:1-17 The question “Will we go through the tribulation?” has been discussed in many books and by many teachers. People do not like the thought of going through any tribulation. In fact, when tribulation comes, they want an easy out. One of the promises of God we do not like to claim is, “In the world you will have tribulation, but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” Jesus said this, and we will all suffer some tribulation in this life. There will be a day, however, when there will be tribulation as never before on this earth. This is a seven-year period at the end of this age when there will be horrific trials. All of us would like to escape this period of time, but the more I study Scripture, the only promise I can hold on to to comfort me about the last days on earth is, “We are not appointed to wrath.” If one studies Revelation, he will discover that the last three and one-half years of the Great Tribulation will be a time on earth when all kinds of plagues are poured out on the earth. This is the time of God’s wrath, and these various trials are called the bowls of wrath. I am convinced the church will not be on earth during this last three and one-half years because we are not appointed to God’s wrath. The statement is made in Revelation that at this time no one left on earth will repent.
Personally I hold to the mid-trib theory, but I believe God wants us to not be absolutely sure. I heard someone say they believed in the pan-trib—it will all pan out in the end. God’s main concern is that we be ready whenever He chooses to come again. The Bible tells us that not even Jesus knows the time. Only the Father knows, and when it is time for Jesus’ return to earth, the Father will tell Him. If Jesus does not know, then I find it very presumptuous of me to try to figure it out and to be convinced that I have discovered exactly the time of our departure from this earth when Jesus comes to receive His own. We can, however, know the season, and all I can say is the season is very near.
Whether you are a mid-trib, post-trib or pre-trib really does not matter. Your opinion holds no effect on God and His plans. However, this passage in Thessalonians does tell us what matters to God. “Therefore, brethren, stand fast and hold the traditions which you were taught, whether by word or our epistle” (v. 15).
This exhortation causes me to bow my knee and pray. You may want to join me.
Lord, help me to stand fast in these last days. I do not want to be one of those who fall away. I trust You as the author and finisher of my faith, and I believe the good work You have begun will be finished.
READ: Jeremiah 23:21-25:38; 2 Thessalonians 2:1-17; Psalm 84:1-12; Proverbs 25:15
